Training Progress (?)
Jumping
After taking a bit of time off, we are back at the training regime with gusto. I'm getting more and more nervous about the jumping. We really need to step up our training. It's one of those things that I am just going to have to go for it and keep trying. I need to "mean it" when we approach the little fence and just urge her over.
So far, the little cross rails are almost too easy although she still bangs her legs on them sometimes (yes, we are using leg wraps). She is just lazy about it (like most things). This week we will raise up the height and probably use verticals instead of the cross rails for a while. There is no doubt that my helmet will be on my head for this stuff.
Loping
Loping and lead changes are going okay. The lead changes are a little rough. She tends to quickly veer in the new direction once the lead change happens. I think my legs are all over the place when I cue the change. I need to stay more centered and maybe ask for it at a different time. I really need the whole arena to practice this. This has been a little tough as I seem to be timing my workouts along with everyone else at the barn.
Bareback riding
The next major obstacle to tackle is bareback riding which I have done very little ...ever...in my life! I am positive that if we make it to the finals, we will be bareback part of the time. I don't think my little trotting is going to make it. Sooooo, canter it is. I just hope the fall doesn't hurt too much :-)
Other random stuff
We finished our application videos for Equine Affaire. Both Brenda and I are applying to be in a couple of clinics. Of course you already know I am applying for the Extreme Cowboy Race as well. The video for ECR is a bit different than the one for the clinics. I have applied to participate with Stacy Westfall and Julie Goodnight. I'll post the videos at some point (when I figure out how to do it).
My work computer CRASHED last week, causing me to lose everything on my hard drive. This includes many of my files for the website. If you are reading this and wondering why the heck the website isn't updated, well, that's why. I hope to be able to get back most of the files. I plan on updating the site this week.
Rio's weight is picking up. I have added shredded beet pulp to her diet along with the change in feed. Right now I give her about 2lbs a day. I soak it for about 1/2 hour before I give it to her. She seems to like it. I'm going to increase the amount gradually over the next several days to a maximum of 4 lbs/day. Too much beet pulp can throw off the calcium level and cause problems in the kidneys. Since she is already getting some in her feed, 4 lbs should be fine.